An ammunition explosion in Indonesia killed at least nine civilians and four soldiers on Monday.

Footage shows the massive detonation, revealing a huge plume of black smoke billowing into the sky in Cibalong District, Garut Regency, West Java Province, on May 12.

The blast reportedly occurred during the destruction of expired ammunition belonging to the Indonesian National Army around 9:30 am.

Speaking in the video, Brigadier General Wahyu Yudhayana, Head of the Indonesian National Army Information Division, said: 'Four members of the Army lost their lives, namely Colonel Antonius Hermawan, Major Anda Rohanda, Corporal Second Class Eri Priambodo, and Private First Class Aprio Setiawan.'

Nine non-military personnel were also reported dead. All victims were transported to the Pameungpeuk Regional General Hospital.

Wahyu noted that the disposal process began smoothly, with the detonation of expired ammunition in two designated wells. The procedure was carried out after all security personnel were in place and the area was declared safe.

The team then began preparations for a third well designated for the disposal of remaining detonators.

However, as the team was handling the explosives, an unexpected blast occurred, resulting in the fatalities.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.